Huntington's disease is a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person's physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure.

HD is known as the quintessential family disease because every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of carrying the faulty gene. Today, there are 30,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.

The Huntington's Disease Society of America is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by HD. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world's leader in providing help for today and hope for tomorrow for people with HD and their families.

To learn more about Huntington's disease and the work of the Huntington's Disease Society of America, visit albany.hdsa.org or call 1-800-345-HDSA.

This year's Hero of Hope Awardee is Jessica Groff Barr. Jessie is a founding member of the Albany Chapter of the Huntington's Disease Society of America as well as an advocate for advancing Huntington's Disease research and education. For the past ten years, Jessie has dedicated herself to organizing the Albany Chapte's Fishy Frolic run held in August. Through this race, over $250,000 has been raised to fund research for new treatments and a cure for HD and to enhance education for HD patients and their families. Her mission has always been to improve the quality of life for those living with Huntington's Disease. The Albany Chapter of the Huntington's Disease Society of America is thankful for Jessie's dedication, the countless hours of volunteer time she has given to further our Chapter's goals and her attitude of hope in the face of this challenging disease. Thank you Jessie.